What are the differences between Boost threading and std::thread?

What are the differences between Boost threading and std::thread?

Boost threading and std::thread both provide ways to manage threads in C++, but they have some key differences. Boost threading is part of the Boost library, which offers a wider range of features and is more portable across different platforms. On the other hand, std::thread is part of the C++11 standard library and is more lightweight, but it may not have all the advanced features that Boost provides.

Can you give examples of features that Boost threading has that std::thread doesn't?

Sure! Boost threading includes features like condition variables, mutexes, and thread pools, which can simplify complex threading tasks. It also provides higher-level abstractions like futures and promises for easier asynchronous programming.

Which one should I use for a new project?

If your project requires advanced threading features and you need portability, Boost threading might be the better choice. However, if you want a simpler solution and are targeting C++11 or later, std::thread is sufficient and easier to use.

Are there any performance differences between the two?

Performance can vary based on the specific use case. Generally, std::thread may have less overhead due to its lightweight nature, but Boost threading can be optimized for more complex scenarios. It's best to benchmark both in your specific context.